How the Element Californium Could Change the World

By: Jessica Robertson

Californium (Cf) has not been thought to be one of the most glamorous elements of the periodic table, but that could soon be a different story thanks to a team of chemists at Florida State University. Their careful research has shown californium to have an uncanny ability to bond and separate other materials, all the while being highly resistant to any radiation damage. The lead researcher has called it “almost too good to be true,” and “wicked stuff,” after seeing the exciting qualities of the previously unimpressive element.

            The real-world application of such findings could entirely shift the scientific paradigm in the realm of nuclear chemistry. Storage containers built of californium could safely hold radioactive waste, while other californium based methods could be used to separate radioactive fuel, meaning the radioactive fuel could be recycled.

            Currently, the cost of californium is extremely high, but its promising ability to overcome the problem of nuclear waste in our world makes this research an entirely worthwhile pursuit. 

The Sweet Side of Dark Chocolate

By: Kate M. Serrano

For someone who is conscious about his or her weight, curves and diet, chocolate is something that’s ticked off the diet plan. But not all chocolates are created equal. If it is your weakness, indulging the right stuff is not only delicious; it also benefits your heart, skin and whole body. A recent research by the Louisiana State University revealed that certain bacteria in the stomach namely Bifidobacterium and lactic acid eat dark chocolate, ferment it and release anti-inflammatory compounds that benefit the heart.
 When these compounds are absorbed by the human body, they lessen the inflammation of cardiovascular tissue, decreases the chance of blood clot therefore reducing the long-term risk of stroke. People who have just the right amount of dark chocolate a day tend to have lower BMI than those who don’t. The researchers also found that eating solid fruits such as pomegranates and acai could gain even greater health benefits if they eat dark chocolate with it. Dark chocolate is also good for the skin. It contains antioxidants that can improve blood flow, promote a healthy glow, fight wrinkles and protect from sun damage. Aside from its awesome taste, it contains serotonin which acts as an anti-depressant, reduces stress hormones and boosts the release of dopamine, the “feel good” hormone. 
In effect, eating dark chocolate will make you feel happier. For all of its health benefits though, dark chocolate does contain a lot of calories and it does not replace prescribed medication so experts recommend sticking to no more than three ounces of the sweet stuff per day.